In a spectacular display of power and precision, England's Red Roses delivered an emphatic statement of intent ahead of the Women's Rugby World Cup, demolishing Wales 88-10 in their final warm-up match at Bristol's Ashton Gate.
The record-breaking performance saw the hosts cross the whitewash an astonishing fourteen times, showcasing the formidable attacking prowess that makes them tournament favourites. This dominant victory sends a clear warning to their World Cup rivals.
Hunter's Historic Night
The occasion was made even more special as captain Sarah Hunter earned her 139th cap, equalling the legendary Rocky Clark's appearance record. The inspirational leader was at the heart of England's dominant forward display, setting the platform for the backs to run riot.
Hunter's leadership throughout the match demonstrated exactly why she remains one of the most respected figures in world rugby, orchestrating her team's performance with characteristic composure and skill.
Try-Scoring Spectacle
The Red Roses' attacking machine clicked into gear with devastating effect. Abby Dow proved particularly lethal, crossing for a first-half hat-trick that left Welsh defenders grasping at thin air. Her blistering pace and finishing ability highlighted England's multi-dimensional threat.
The try-scoring spree was shared throughout the team, with both forwards and backs contributing to the scoreboard in a demonstration of the squad's incredible depth and versatility.
World Cup Warning
This performance serves as the perfect confidence booster as England prepare to travel to New Zealand for the World Cup. The comprehensive nature of the victory, built on both set-piece dominance and open-play creativity, shows a team peaking at exactly the right moment.
Head coach Simon Middleton will be particularly pleased with his squad's clinical edge, with conversions being slotted with regularity to keep the scoreboard ticking over at an impressive rate.
The Red Roses now head to the Southern Hemisphere with momentum firmly behind them, ready to challenge for the ultimate prize in women's rugby.
